[wolf_from_wv]

http://www.tractorsupply.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay_10551_10001_44134_-1______?rFlag=true&cFlag=1

Is that a decent lathe for making small parts?

[freakshow10mm]

Go to www.mini-lathe.com. Lots of info there on the mini lathes. You will find most of the Harbor Freight, Tools Now (Cummins), Grizzly, Clarke, etc mini lathes are all made in China by the same exact factory. They are almost exactly the same lathe in every respect, just the US bound sellers market them a little differently with a few different extras. I'm getting my mini lathe from Tools Now. Comes with a 5pc tool set, a chuck tail stock, steady and follower rest, and is only $449.

[freakshow10mm]

These guys http://www.littlemachineshop.com/Info/minilathe_compare.php have a comparison chart with the different specs on the mini lathes. They also have a lot of cool gadgets for reasonable prices for the mini lathe.

[mrmeval]

http://www.sherline.com/

Harbor Freight also has lathe's, a lot of that size are the same base import with a company logo pasted on.

[Riss]

If you find one close by and cheap a small 6" or a larger 10" Atlas / Craftsman lathe will be better. The 10" can be had in 36" and 54" bed length. Cost is about the same as a small, small import lathe. Check on EGay, you should be able to find multiples or just about every make lathe that has ever been made.